Forget the Dilemmas!

As November gives way to December, Chanukah arrives in our homes — an early one, at that. The fact that the Festival of Lights does not coincide with Christmas this year may cause consternation in some parts, and not only among retailers.

Too many Jews worry about competing with the pervasive "spirit" of our neighbors' holiday season, leading, as usual, to what's called the "December dilemma" — fretting about the appearance of trees and other symbols that remind us that we are a minority in this country. But given the rather long break between Chanukah and Christmas, perhaps this is a good time for us to heartily embrace our own traditions without the direct presence of other holidays.

In that spirit, the Jewish Exponent wishes our readers and their families a Happy Chanukah and a pleasant December free of any dilemmas at all!